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October 12, 2011

"Should the USSC publish sentencing data for individual judges?"

The question in the title of this post is the provocative first question asked by Rep. Sandy Adams (R-FL), a former Deputy Sheriff, which references this blog and particularly this post reporting on comments by Judge Kopf endorsing judge-identifier data be released. (She also alsked so very tough questions of Judge Saris concerning the high rate of downward variances in child porn cases.) I wish she was also given more time to ask question of all the witnesses.

Comments

And while we're at it, why not publish data re exercises of prosecutorial discretion? Which offices and/or individual prosecutors make the most substantial-assistance motions, file the most 851 notices, consent to the most variance motions, etc.? This wouldn't violate separation-of-powers principles because there would be no interference with prosecutorial decisions - just sunlight cast on the decisions. Same as with the judges' sentencing decisions.

Posted by: snapple | Oct 12, 2011 11:48:30 AM

Even more important, how many prosecutors jack up charges or recommended sentences merely because the accused exercises his/her right to trial? What are the differences in sentences in years?

Posted by: Anon | Oct 12, 2011 12:01:44 PM

Interesting site for limited rating feedback on judges.

http://www.therobingroom.com/

Posted by: comment | Oct 12, 2011 12:57:48 PM

The follow up data on individual defendants should also be published. How good a job have prosecutors and judges done to protect the public. The counts of crimes should also include other prisoners who are victimized by the defendants. Some stop loss should be defined, beyond which both prosecutors and judges are removed from office. There should be emergency suspensions of judges who are a threat to the public safety.